Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system comprising a payment terminal, a plurality of distributed servers, and a central server, each of the plurality of distributed servers comprising: one or more processors; a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon a program, which, when executed, causes the one or more processors to perform a method of the distributed server of the three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system, the method comprising: monitoring whether a failure has occurred on a communication network between the distributed server and the central server; searching for another distributed server capable of communicating with the central server, among the plurality of distributed servers, when it is determined that the failure has occurred; and communicating with the central server through the other distributed server, wherein the payment terminal processes a payment with the central server through the distributed server when a failure has occurred on a communication network between the payment terminal and the central server, wherein the plurality of distributed servers are disposed between the payment terminal and the central server, and wherein communicating with the central server comprises: setting a bypass route passing through the other distributed server by using an ad-hoc function; and communicating with the central server through the bypass route.
A three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system includes a payment terminal, multiple distributed servers, and a central server. The system ensures reliable payment processing even when communication failures occur between components. Each distributed server monitors its connection to the central server. If a failure is detected, the server searches for another distributed server that can still communicate with the central server. The server then establishes a bypass route through the operational distributed server using an ad-hoc function, allowing it to communicate with the central server indirectly. Similarly, if a payment terminal loses direct communication with its assigned distributed server, it processes payments through the central server via an alternative distributed server. The distributed servers act as intermediaries between payment terminals and the central server, forming a hierarchical structure that enhances system resilience. This design ensures continuous payment processing by dynamically rerouting communication paths when network disruptions occur.
2. The transportation system of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises transmitting a command for instructing the payment terminal to independently process a payment, when another distributed server is not found within a preset time.
The transportation system involves a network of distributed servers that manage payment processing for transportation services. The system addresses the problem of unreliable payment processing when network connectivity is unstable or when a primary server is unavailable. In such cases, the system ensures uninterrupted service by enabling a payment terminal to independently process payments without relying on a central server. The system includes a payment terminal that communicates with distributed servers to authorize and complete transactions. If a distributed server fails to respond within a preset time, the payment terminal is instructed to process the payment locally. This local processing ensures that passengers can still complete transactions even if the network is down or a server is unreachable. The system may also include additional features such as load balancing, redundancy, and failover mechanisms to maintain reliability. The method involves monitoring the availability of distributed servers and determining whether a response is received within the preset time. If no response is detected, the payment terminal is directed to handle the payment independently, reducing dependency on external servers. This approach improves system resilience and ensures continuous operation during network disruptions. The system may also include encryption and security protocols to protect payment data during local processing.
3. The transportation system of claim 2 , wherein the method further comprises: receiving a transaction history including payment data from the payment terminal that has independently processed the payment according to the command; and storing the transaction history.
A transportation system is designed to facilitate secure and efficient payment processing for transit services. The system addresses the challenge of integrating payment terminals with transit operations while ensuring reliable transaction handling. The system includes a payment terminal that processes payments independently in response to commands from a central controller. The payment terminal generates and executes payment commands without requiring immediate confirmation from the central controller, allowing for faster transaction processing. The system also receives a transaction history, including payment data, from the payment terminal after the payment has been independently processed. This transaction history is then stored for record-keeping and verification purposes. The stored transaction history enables tracking of payments, reconciliation of financial records, and auditing of transactions. The system ensures that payment processing remains secure and efficient while maintaining accurate records of all transactions. This approach improves the reliability and speed of payment handling in transit systems, reducing delays and enhancing the user experience.
4. The transportation system of claim 3 , wherein the method further comprises transmitting the transaction history to the central server, after it is determined that there is no longer a failure on the communication network between the distributed server and the central server.
This invention relates to a transportation system that manages transaction data in a distributed network environment. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining data integrity and availability when communication between distributed servers and a central server is disrupted. In such cases, the system allows transactions to be processed locally at distributed servers while maintaining a transaction history. Once communication is restored, the transaction history is transmitted to the central server to ensure synchronization and consistency across the network. The system ensures that transactions remain valid and traceable even during network failures, preventing data loss or inconsistencies. The distributed servers handle transactions independently when offline, then reconcile with the central server once connectivity is restored, ensuring seamless operation and data integrity in a distributed transportation system.
5. The transportation system of claim 3 , wherein the method further comprises, if the failure continues after the preset time and the other distributed server is found, transmitting the transaction history to the central server using the other distributed server.
A transportation system is designed to manage and process transactions in a distributed computing environment, ensuring reliability and continuity even when individual servers fail. The system includes multiple distributed servers and a central server, where transactions are initially processed by one of the distributed servers. If a failure occurs in the distributed server handling a transaction, the system detects the failure and initiates a recovery process. After a preset time, if the failure persists, the system identifies another operational distributed server. The transaction history, including any pending or incomplete transactions, is then transmitted to the central server through this alternative distributed server. This ensures that critical transaction data is preserved and processed, maintaining system integrity and preventing data loss. The system is particularly useful in environments where high availability and fault tolerance are essential, such as financial transactions, logistics tracking, or real-time transportation management systems. The method ensures seamless recovery by leveraging redundant distributed servers to maintain continuous operation and data consistency.
6. The transportation system of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises: monitoring whether a failure has occurred on the communication network between the payment terminal and the central server; and performing wireless communication with the central server and performing near-field wireless communication with the payment terminal, if it is determined that the failure has occurred.
This invention relates to a transportation system that enhances communication reliability between payment terminals and a central server, particularly in scenarios where network failures occur. The system is designed to address disruptions in the primary communication network that could otherwise prevent fare payment processing, ticket validation, or other critical transactions. The transportation system includes a payment terminal and a central server connected via a communication network. The payment terminal is configured to process payments, validate tickets, or perform other fare-related transactions. The central server manages transaction data, user accounts, and system-wide operations. The system monitors the communication network for failures that could disrupt data exchange between the payment terminal and the central server. If a failure is detected, the system automatically switches to an alternative communication mode. It establishes wireless communication with the central server to maintain connectivity and performs near-field wireless communication with the payment terminal to ensure local transaction processing. This redundancy ensures that fare payments and validations continue uninterrupted, even when the primary network is unavailable. The near-field communication allows direct data exchange between the payment terminal and the central server, bypassing the failed network. This approach improves system reliability and user experience in transportation environments where network stability may be inconsistent.
7. The transportation system of claim 1 , wherein the distributed server is configured to switch between wired communication and wireless communication with the central server, and performs wireless communication with the payment terminal.
This invention relates to a transportation system designed to facilitate secure and efficient communication between a distributed server, a central server, and a payment terminal. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining reliable connectivity in environments where wired and wireless communication may be intermittent or unavailable. The distributed server is capable of dynamically switching between wired and wireless communication modes to ensure continuous connectivity with the central server. Additionally, the distributed server communicates wirelessly with the payment terminal, enabling real-time transaction processing and data exchange. This dual-mode communication approach enhances system robustness, particularly in scenarios where infrastructure limitations or mobility requirements necessitate flexible connectivity options. The system ensures seamless operation by automatically selecting the most stable communication channel, thereby minimizing disruptions and improving transaction reliability. The integration of wireless communication with the payment terminal further supports mobile and remote payment processing, expanding the system's applicability in various transportation settings.
8. The transportation system of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises downloading operating information from the central server.
The transportation system involves a network of autonomous vehicles that coordinate their movements to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion. The system includes a central server that collects and processes real-time data from the vehicles, such as location, speed, and destination information. The central server uses this data to generate and distribute operating instructions to the vehicles, ensuring efficient routing and minimizing delays. The system also allows for dynamic adjustments based on changing traffic conditions, such as accidents or road closures, to maintain smooth operations. A key feature of the system is the ability to download operating information from the central server. This includes updates to vehicle routing, traffic management strategies, and other operational parameters. The downloaded information ensures that the vehicles operate in accordance with the latest traffic conditions and system-wide directives. This feature enhances the system's adaptability and efficiency, allowing it to respond quickly to real-time changes in the transportation network. The system may also include additional components, such as sensors and communication modules, to facilitate data exchange between the vehicles and the central server. The overall goal is to improve traffic flow, reduce travel times, and enhance the reliability of autonomous vehicle operations.
9. The transportation system of claim 8 , wherein the method further comprises transmitting the operating information to one or more distributed servers that did not receive the operating information.
The transportation system involves a network of vehicles and infrastructure components that collect and share operating information to optimize transportation efficiency and safety. The system addresses challenges in real-time data dissemination, such as delays or gaps in information distribution across a network of distributed servers. To solve this, the system includes a method for transmitting operating information—such as vehicle status, traffic conditions, or infrastructure performance—to servers that did not initially receive the data. This ensures all relevant servers have access to the latest information, enabling coordinated decision-making and improving overall system reliability. The method may involve direct transmission or relay through intermediate nodes, depending on network topology and latency requirements. By ensuring comprehensive data availability, the system enhances situational awareness and responsiveness across the transportation network. This approach is particularly useful in large-scale or decentralized systems where centralized data management is impractical or inefficient. The solution supports applications in autonomous vehicle coordination, traffic management, and infrastructure monitoring, where timely and consistent data distribution is critical.
10. An operating method of a payment terminal of a three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system, the method comprising: receiving data including payment data from a card tagged to a card reader of the payment terminal; monitoring whether a failure has occurred on a communication network between the payment terminal and a central server; searching for a first distributed server capable of communicating with the central server, among a plurality of distributed servers within the communication network, based on a result of the monitoring, the plurality of distributed servers being disposed between the payment terminal and the central server; and processing a payment with the central server through the first distributed server.
The payment terminal operates within a three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system designed to handle transactions even when communication with a central server is disrupted. The system includes multiple distributed servers positioned between the payment terminal and the central server to ensure payment processing continuity. When a payment transaction is initiated, the terminal receives payment data from a card via a card reader. The terminal continuously monitors the communication network for failures that may prevent direct communication with the central server. If a failure is detected, the terminal searches for an available distributed server that can still communicate with the central server. Once identified, the terminal routes the payment transaction through this distributed server, allowing the payment to be processed despite network disruptions. This hierarchical structure ensures reliable payment processing by leveraging intermediate servers as backup communication nodes when direct connectivity to the central server is lost. The system prioritizes redundancy and fault tolerance to maintain uninterrupted service in transportation fee payment environments.
11. The operating method of claim 10 , further comprising: processing a payment independently when the first distributed server capable of communicating with the central server is not found within a preset time; and storing a transaction history including the payment data based on the processed payment.
This invention relates to distributed payment processing systems, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining transaction integrity when communication with a central server is disrupted. The system includes multiple distributed servers that can process payments locally when direct communication with the central server is unavailable. If no distributed server capable of communicating with the central server is found within a preset time, the system processes the payment independently. The transaction history, including payment data, is then stored locally. This ensures that payments are not lost during network outages or delays, allowing for later synchronization when connectivity is restored. The method involves detecting communication status, determining the availability of connected distributed servers, and executing local payment processing when necessary. The stored transaction history enables reconciliation once the central server is reachable again, ensuring data consistency across the distributed network. This approach improves reliability in payment systems by preventing transaction failures due to temporary connectivity issues.
12. The operating method of claim 11 , wherein the first distributed server backs up the transaction history including the payment data based on the processed payment of the payment terminal, if it is determined that the failure on the communication network between the payment terminal and the central server continues.
This invention relates to a backup system for payment transactions in distributed server environments, addressing the problem of communication failures between payment terminals and central servers. The system ensures transaction data integrity by leveraging distributed servers to back up payment histories when network disruptions occur. The method involves monitoring communication between a payment terminal and a central server. If a failure is detected, a first distributed server takes over, backing up the transaction history, including payment data, based on the processed payment from the terminal. This ensures that transaction records are preserved even if the primary communication link is unavailable. The backup process may involve storing data temporarily until the network issue is resolved, allowing seamless recovery once connectivity is restored. The system may also include a second distributed server that verifies the backup data from the first distributed server, ensuring accuracy and consistency. This redundancy enhances reliability, preventing data loss during network outages. The method may further involve synchronizing the backed-up data with the central server once communication is reestablished, ensuring all transaction records are up to date. This solution is particularly useful in environments where payment processing must remain uninterrupted, such as retail, banking, or e-commerce, where network reliability is critical. The system provides a fail-safe mechanism to maintain transaction integrity during communication failures.
13. The operating method of claim 10 , further comprising: if there is a failure on a communication network between the first distributed server and the central server and the first distributed server does not find a second distributed server capable of communicating with the central server, receiving a command from the first distributed server, wherein the command instructs the payment terminal to independently process a payment.
This invention relates to distributed payment processing systems, specifically addressing the problem of maintaining payment functionality during network failures between distributed servers and a central server. In such systems, payment terminals typically rely on communication with a central server for authorization and processing. However, if the network connecting a distributed server to the central server fails, and no alternative distributed server can communicate with the central server, the system must ensure uninterrupted payment processing. The method involves a payment terminal connected to a first distributed server, which in turn communicates with a central server. If the network between the first distributed server and the central server fails, and the first distributed server cannot locate a second distributed server that can communicate with the central server, the first distributed server sends a command to the payment terminal. This command instructs the payment terminal to process payments independently, bypassing the need for immediate central server communication. This ensures that transactions can still be completed even when network connectivity is disrupted, improving system reliability and user experience. The method may include additional steps such as reconnecting to the central server once the network is restored and synchronizing any locally processed transactions.
14. The operating method of claim 13 , further comprising transmitting a transaction history including the payment data based on the independently processed payment to the first distributed server.
This invention relates to a method for processing payments in a distributed system, addressing the challenge of securely and efficiently handling payment transactions across multiple servers. The method involves receiving a payment request from a client device, where the request includes payment data such as transaction details and user information. The payment data is then processed independently by a first distributed server, which may involve validating the transaction, verifying the user's credentials, or executing the payment. After processing, the payment data is transmitted to a second distributed server for further handling, such as recording the transaction or updating account balances. Additionally, the method includes transmitting a transaction history, which includes the processed payment data, back to the first distributed server. This ensures that the first server maintains an up-to-date record of all transactions, improving data consistency and reliability across the distributed system. The method may also involve encrypting the payment data during transmission to enhance security. This approach enables secure, decentralized payment processing while maintaining accurate transaction records.
15. The operating method of claim 10 , wherein, when a failure has occurred on a communication network with the central server, the first distributed server searches for a second distributed server capable of communicating with the central server and performs communication with the central server using the second distributed server by setting a bypass route passing through the second distributed server using an ad-hoc function, and wherein processing the payment with the central server comprises processing the payment with the central server through the first distributed server and the second distributed server.
This invention relates to a distributed server system for maintaining communication with a central server in the event of a network failure. The problem addressed is ensuring uninterrupted payment processing and data exchange when direct communication between a first distributed server and the central server is disrupted. The system includes multiple distributed servers and a central server. If a communication failure occurs between the first distributed server and the central server, the first distributed server identifies a second distributed server that can still communicate with the central server. It then establishes an ad-hoc bypass route through the second distributed server to relay data and process payments. This bypass route allows the first distributed server to maintain connectivity with the central server indirectly, ensuring continuous operation despite the initial network failure. The payment processing is conducted through this bypass route, involving both the first and second distributed servers as intermediaries. This solution enhances system resilience by dynamically rerouting communication through available servers, preventing service interruptions during network outages. The ad-hoc function enables real-time adaptation to network conditions, ensuring reliable payment processing and data exchange.
16. A three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system, comprising: a payment terminal; a plurality of distributed servers; a central server, wherein the plurality of distributed servers are disposed between the payment terminal and the central server, and wherein the payment terminal comprises: a sensing unit configured to sense a tagged card; and a processor configured to monitor whether a failure has occurred on a communication network between the payment terminal and the central server, search for a distributed server capable of communicating with the central server among the plurality of distributed servers within the communication network, based on a result of the monitoring, and request the central server to process a payment for the tagged card using the searched distributed server, and wherein the plurality of distributed servers are configured to monitor whether a failure has occurred on a communication network with the central server, search for another distributed server capable of communicating with the central server when the failure has occurred, and perform communication with the central server using the other distributed server by setting a bypass route passing through the other distributed server using an ad-hoc function.
This invention relates to a three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system designed to ensure reliable payment processing even when communication failures occur between payment terminals and a central server. The system includes a payment terminal, multiple distributed servers, and a central server, with the distributed servers acting as intermediaries between the terminal and the central server. The payment terminal features a sensing unit to detect tagged cards and a processor that monitors the communication network for failures. If a failure is detected, the processor searches for an operational distributed server within the network that can still communicate with the central server and routes the payment request through that server. The distributed servers also monitor their own connections to the central server. If a failure is detected, they search for another distributed server that can communicate with the central server and establish a bypass route using an ad-hoc function, allowing payment processing to continue uninterrupted. This hierarchical structure enhances system resilience by providing redundant communication paths, ensuring that payment transactions can be completed even if primary network links fail. The system is particularly useful in transportation networks where continuous and reliable payment processing is critical.
17. The three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system of claim 16 , wherein the processor is further configured to independently process the payment if there is a failure on a communication network between the distributed server and the central server.
A three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system is designed to manage and process payments for transportation services in a distributed and resilient manner. The system includes a central server, distributed servers, and user devices, forming a hierarchical structure to ensure reliable payment processing even under network failures. The central server acts as the primary authority for payment validation and settlement, while distributed servers handle local transactions and communicate with the central server for synchronization. User devices initiate payment requests and interact with the nearest distributed server. In the event of a communication failure between a distributed server and the central server, the system is configured to allow the distributed server to independently process payments locally. This ensures uninterrupted service and prevents payment disruptions due to network issues. The system may include mechanisms to reconcile transactions once connectivity is restored, ensuring data consistency across the hierarchy. This approach enhances reliability and availability in transportation fee payment systems, particularly in scenarios where network stability cannot be guaranteed. The system may also include features for fraud detection, transaction logging, and user authentication to ensure secure and accurate payment processing.
18. The three-level hierarchical transportation fee payment system of claim 17 , further comprising a storage configured to store transaction history information including payment information.
A hierarchical transportation fee payment system is designed to manage and process payments for transportation services across multiple levels of a transportation network. The system addresses inefficiencies in traditional payment systems by providing a structured approach to handling transactions, ensuring transparency, and reducing errors. The system includes a three-level hierarchy, where each level corresponds to different entities or stages in the transportation process, such as a central authority, regional operators, and individual service providers. This hierarchical structure allows for decentralized yet coordinated payment processing, improving scalability and reliability. The system further includes a storage mechanism configured to store transaction history information, including payment details. This storage capability enables tracking of all financial transactions within the network, ensuring accountability and facilitating audits. By maintaining a comprehensive record of payment information, the system supports dispute resolution, financial reporting, and compliance with regulatory requirements. The stored data can also be used for analytics, helping to optimize payment processes and identify areas for improvement. The hierarchical design and integrated storage functionality work together to enhance the efficiency and security of transportation fee payments, making the system suitable for large-scale transportation networks.
19. A three-level hierarchical public transportation fee payment system comprising: one or more payment terminals configured to request processing of a payment for a tagged card; one or more distributed servers disposed between the one or more payment terminals and a central server, and configured to monitor whether a failure has occurred on a communication network with the central server, search for another distributed server capable of communicating with the central server when the failure has occurred, and perform communication with the central server using the other distributed server; and the central server configured to forward operating information to the one or more distributed servers, wherein the one or more payment terminals are further configured to monitor whether a failure has occurred on a communication network with the central server, search for a distributed server capable of communicating with the central server when the failure has occurred, and process the payment with the central server using the searched distributed server, and wherein performing the communication with the central server using the other distributed server comprises: setting a bypass route passing through the other distributed server by using an ad-hoc function; and communicating with the central server through the bypass route.
The invention relates to a three-level hierarchical public transportation fee payment system designed to ensure reliable payment processing even when communication failures occur between payment terminals and a central server. The system addresses the problem of payment disruptions in public transportation networks caused by network outages or communication failures. The system includes payment terminals that request payment processing for tagged cards, distributed servers acting as intermediaries between the terminals and the central server, and the central server itself. The distributed servers monitor for communication failures with the central server and, if a failure is detected, search for another distributed server that can still communicate with the central server. They then establish a bypass route using an ad-hoc function to reroute communication through the operational distributed server, ensuring uninterrupted payment processing. Similarly, the payment terminals also monitor for communication failures and, if detected, search for a functional distributed server to relay payment requests to the central server. The central server forwards operating information to the distributed servers, enabling them to facilitate payment processing even during network disruptions. This hierarchical structure enhances system resilience by providing redundant communication paths, ensuring that payment transactions can proceed seamlessly despite partial network failures. The ad-hoc bypass routing mechanism dynamically adapts to network conditions, maintaining service continuity in public transportation fee payment systems.
20. The public transportation fee payment system of claim 19 , wherein the payment terminal processes the payment with the central server using the other distributed server that is capable of communicating with the central server when a failure has occurred on the communication network between the searched distributed server and the central server and the other distributed server is found.
This invention relates to a public transportation fee payment system designed to ensure reliable payment processing even when communication networks experience failures. The system includes a central server, multiple distributed servers, and payment terminals. Each distributed server is capable of communicating with the central server to process payments. The payment terminals are configured to search for and connect to a distributed server to facilitate payment transactions. If a communication failure occurs between a selected distributed server and the central server, the payment terminal automatically detects this issue and switches to another distributed server that can successfully communicate with the central server. This redundancy ensures uninterrupted payment processing, improving reliability in public transportation fee collection. The system dynamically selects an alternative distributed server when the primary connection fails, maintaining seamless transaction flow despite network disruptions. This approach enhances fault tolerance and minimizes service interruptions in public transportation payment systems.
Unknown
September 17, 2019
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